The Duragesic pain patch has raised concerns among Food and Drug Administration officials and experts in the medical community since studies linked the drug to at least 120 deaths. With the potent narcotic fentanyl as its active ingredient, the Duragesic patch is widely prescribed to treat chronic pain. Despite its benefits, the patch carries significant risks, which include fentanyl overdose and even death.

If you or a loved one is using the fentanyl patch to manage chronic pain, you should know that there are Duragesic alternatives that can help you manage your pain safely and effectively without the risks.

• Local anesthetic injections can be injected into muscles and joints as well as the area around nerve roots to alleviate certain factors that cause pain, such as muscle spasms, swelling, and abnormal nerve activity.
• Physical and aquatic therapy can be individually tailored to help enhance daily functioning and also mitigate pain with whirlpool treatments and various types of massage.
• Electrical Stimulation is a Duragesic alternative that uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to manage pain. TENS is a non-painful treatment that decreases pain by targeting nerve fibers with a small, battery-powered device.
• Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice involving the insertion of very fine needles into precise points on the body. Many acupuncturists have specialized training in the area of pain management.
• Surgery is often a last resort option for treating pain, since it carries its own risks. However, when pain is severe and unresponsive to other procedures and treatments, surgery may be performed on certain nerves to provide the patient with some relief.
• Psychological support from a trained professional is sometimes essential for dealing with the emotional and physical effects of chronic pain. Oftentimes, severe and persistent pain can leave a person feeling sad and hopeless, which in turn can interfere with work and personal relationships. A psychologist or psychiatrist can provide information on self-help therapies, including relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and more.

To learn more about the Duragesic alternatives best for you, it is important to contact a physician skilled in pain management. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious Duragesic side effect, you should know that you have legal rights. Please contact us today for a free case evaluation with one of our caring and competent personal injury lawyers who can ensure that your legal rights are protected.